The most interesting artisan jewelry you’ll find in the markets of Peru stays true to the Peruvian traditions that have been passed down for centuries. For example, the art of gourd carving started centuries ago when Peruvians used it as a way to record stories and important information. Today’s gourd artists honor this tradition while adapting it to modern taste, creating a variety of necklaces, bracelets and earrings that feature pieces of carved gourd. Native stones and shells such as spondylus have been used to create jewelry since ancient times, and once symbolized wealth and power. Now these beautiful natural materials are available to everyone in the form of modern sterling silver designs. The tradition of carrying Huayruro seeds for good luck is another practice that has existed for many years in Peru. Today, artisans create a vast selection of Huayruro seed jewelry like this Huayruro bracelet, along with keychains and other accessories.
Photo from dogbreedinfo.com
Although the Peruvian Inca Orchid may sound like a rare flower from the Amazon, it is actually a rare dog breed. The dogs are usually hairless, except for an occasional tuft on their heads. However, some coated dogs are born within the same litters as their hairless siblings. The Peruvian Inca Orchids that are bred in the US tend to have a very similar look, due to the fact that almost all of them originate from a dozen or less dogs that were imported here many years ago. The breed has changed over time in Peru, however, so the dogs that are imported today may have different characteristics or varieties. Since most Peruvian Inca Orchids are hairless, their owners have to apply sunscreen to their delicate skin. In Peru they are referred to as “Calato,” the Quechua word for “naked.”
Sacha Inchi Plant
Peru is becoming known as the source for many different health foods. In March, a French doctor published a book called “The Real Cancer Fighting Regime,” listing the healthiest foods for those fighting cancer and those looking to prevent it. Among his recommendations were several foods native to Peru, including quinoa, which is now known as one of the most nutritious grains in the world. He also lists camu camu, a native Peruvian fruit that has 30 times more vitamin C than oranges. Another development in the Peruvian health food industry is the increase in exports of Sacha Inchi oil. This oil is made from a plant that grows in the Amazon. Health experts are now calling Sachi Inchi a super fooddue to the high content of essential fatty acids in its oil. Experts agree that most people need more Omega-3 fatty acids in their diets, and Sacha Inchi is a great source of this essential element for good health. Peru provides a rich variety of healthy foods, and the exports of these foods are increasing to areas where they cannot be grown locally.
One of the most interesting types of jewelry you’ll find in the Peruvian marketplace features the wings of real butterflies. With so many varieties of butterflies in the Amazon, locals regularly gather wings from those that have expired naturally. Artisans buy the wings, and artfully set them in silver. The result is an artsy look that attracts attention and conversation. When I wear my butterfly wing earrings, people comment on how iridescent they are and ask what the material under the glass is. When I tell them they’re real butterfly wings, they are usually surprised. The artisans use special techniques to work with the incredibly delicate wings, and the handcrafted jewelry they create is truly unique. Butterfly wing jewelry from Peru showcases the beauty of the Amazon.
The Inti Raymi festival, or celebration of the sun, starts today in Cusco. It will continue through tomorrow. Although there are many festivals throughout the year in Peru, Inti Raymi is known as one of the most elaborate, and also as one of the oldest. The tradition was started by the Incas, and continues as a lasting historical ceremony. The most recent interpretation of the ceremony started in 1944, and is celebrated near the ruins of Sacsaywaman. Colorful costumes and traditional dances make this festival an impressive sight to see.
The art of gourd carving has been practiced in Peru for over 4,000 years. This ancient technique has been perfected and enhanced over time, but you will still see traditional Peruvian motifs on gourds in today’s marketplace. In addition, you’ll find designs including intricate butterflies, a variety of animals, including cats and dogs, and you’ll even see uniquely shaped gourds that are made to look like birds with long necks. I am always amazed when I see a new take on mate (ma-tay), or gourd art. The creativity and talent of the artisans shines through in each new design they create. Although the organic/natural movement may seem like a relatively new thing, this organic art form never went out of style in Peru. Modern day artisans honor this ancient tradition by using their mate designs in a variety of decorative ways. Mate jewelry is my favorite, and you’ll find several gourd jewelry designs at Tikanchay.
When looking at Peruvian jewelry in the marketplace, it is clear that age old traditions are still celebrated with modern day crafts. The Mate jewelry, made with carved gourd, represents a special Peruvian craft that is passed down from generation to generation. The Huayruro seed jewelry, like this Huayruro Seed Necklace, stems from the long standing tradition of carrying Huayruro seeds for good luck. Some Peruvian necklaces and earrings are made with pieces of intricate woven tapestries which are placed behind glass. These pieces have that a connection to the ancient weavings that started thousands of years ago in Peru
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Ollantaytambo is an Incan city that sits along the Patakancha River. It often serves as the starting point for visitors traveling the Inca Trail, but it is a fascinating site on its own as well. Ollantaytambo was once the Emperor Pachacuti’s royal estate, after he conquered the area. Under his direction, the town was rebuilt to include many new buildings, including a ceremonial center. After he died, the estate was passed on to his family members. It was an Incan stronghold during the conquistadors’ conquest, until it fell under control of Hernando Pizarro in 1540. Visiting this site will give you a sense of Pre-Columbian history in Peru.
The Paracas District in the Ica Province is named for an ancient civilization that once lived there. Although several ancient societies developed throughout Peru many centuries ago, the Paracas culture stands out for their extremely intricate textiles. These delicate woven textiles were used to wrap mummies, so many were preserved in tombs that were first investigated in the 1920s. Museums around the world display these amazing works of art today.
Although most people have heard of Machu Picchu, many do not know about Choqequirao, which is often referred to as Machu Picchu’s sister. Just like Machu Picchu, it was a city of the Incas. Located in Southern Peru, it is also accessed through the Cusco region. However, it cannot be reached by bus or train the way Machu Picchu can. In fact, the only way to visit it is to take a two day hike. Therefore, it has remained a less popular tourist site. Researchers believe Choquequirao was used as a refuge for the last Incas who tried to resist the conquistadors. The ruins are being restored, and there is talk of one day running a cable car or train into the area so more visitors can experience this city.
